Abstract
Despite growing recognition that systemic family therapists need to be adept at personal reflection and managing the therapeutic
relationship, little research has explored the effects of training beyond the development of skills. This article provides
a report on a qualitative study focussed on the personal effects of family therapy training, with particular reference to
the aspects of training that foster personal reflection and growth. Twenty three trainees from three training institutions
were interviewed, utilizing the practices of grounded theory. Trainees reported a deepening relational awareness, which applied
to both personal and professional domains and included shifts in perspectives on relationships with loved ones. Five aspects
of training were identified as responsible: (1) personally challenging experiences with clients; (2) supervisors who live
the paradigm; (3) the demystification of theory; (4) a safe supervisory space; and (5) the development of trusting peer relationships.
Interns also described, in turn, how their personal development affected their clinical work, particularly in the development
of compassion and empathy. This study serves to highlight training practices that support reflective practice in systemic
family therapy.
relationship, little research has explored the effects of training beyond the development of skills. This article provides
a report on a qualitative study focussed on the personal effects of family therapy training, with particular reference to
the aspects of training that foster personal reflection and growth. Twenty three trainees from three training institutions
were interviewed, utilizing the practices of grounded theory. Trainees reported a deepening relational awareness, which applied
to both personal and professional domains and included shifts in perspectives on relationships with loved ones. Five aspects
of training were identified as responsible: (1) personally challenging experiences with clients; (2) supervisors who live
the paradigm; (3) the demystification of theory; (4) a safe supervisory space; and (5) the development of trusting peer relationships.
Interns also described, in turn, how their personal development affected their clinical work, particularly in the development
of compassion and empathy. This study serves to highlight training practices that support reflective practice in systemic
family therapy.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Category Original Paper
- Pages 1-13
- DOI 10.1007/s10591-011-9166-2
- Authors
- Paul Rhodes, Clinical Psychology Unit, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Chai Nge, Clinical Psychology Unit, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Andrew Wallis, Clinical Psychology Unit, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Caroline Hunt, Clinical Psychology Unit, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Journal Contemporary Family Therapy
- Online ISSN 1573-3335
- Print ISSN 0892-2764